Old Town Canoe Company was founded in 1898 and has become one of the first in America to take part in the production of both canoes and kayaks. The speciality of the company is the building of wood-canvas canoes.
Tens of thousands of kayak have been dispatched from the firm’s plant in Old Town, Maine. You can now locate a traditional paddle vessel in many places throughout the US.
In 1995, Old Town began producing their series of kayaks which continue to be produced today. These kayaks are made from high-quality, cost-effective rotomolded polyethylene, ranging from the open sit-on-top style to a more enclosed sit-inside.
In 2004, Johnson Outdoors took possession of Old Town, who have ownership over other prominent outdoor businesses like Eureka and JetBoil as well as Ocean Kayak.
Beginning kayakers enjoy both the comfortableness and simplicity of Old Town’s ten and twelve foot recreational kayaks. These boats, which are of a more modest length, are strong and simple to control, perfect for relaxed trips on tranquil waters.
Kayakers who are strategizing to take extended trips can pick from skinny 13- and 14-foot kayaks created for brief touring, plus a tandem Looksha sea kayak.
Old Town kayaks are designed with anglers in mind; the sit-on-top and sit-inside models have everything one needs to really enjoy the experience of kayak fishing. Their pedal-drive option allows you to fish with both hands, making it even easier to catch a prize.
All Old Town kayaks are crafted from HDPE, helping to minimize expenditure, upkeep and the probability of destruction. A range of sizes are available for all types of paddlers in the selection of models offered.
If you desire a kayak for recreational activities, extended trips, or fishing that’s affordable, Old Town has what you need.
This article will be beneficial in guiding your decision on what Old Town kayak would be the best fit for you. In this article, we will provide an outline of the various Old Town kayaks you can choose from and advice on buying either a new or pre-owned model.
Shopping for a used Old Town kayak?
Lately, the hardest aspect of buying a kayak is usually locating one. There have been difficulties in the supply chain that has resulted in a shortage of new recreation equipment being available in stores. The demand for this kind of gear has grown.
If you opt for a second-hand Old Town kayak, you will be able to allocate the funds saved towards purchasing a comfortablepersonal flotation device and a lightweight paddle.
Once you have identified a kayak that looks promising, it is important to examine it carefully (and if possible, go for a test drive) before committing to the purchase.
Where can you find used kayaks?
If you want a pre-owned Old Town kayak, try checking Craigslist, Kijiji, or other on the web classifieds to find what you need. You will have to be thorough since boats typically get sold within a few days after they are advertised.
Spread your search wide when you are looking, since vendors may not note the particular version. Create a notification for “Old Town Kayak” or “Plastic Kayak” so you won’t overlook any advertisements.
Outfitters in your area who offer Old Town kayaks as part of their rental selection may put older models up for sale in order to get newer ones. Ask kindly if you can purchase one once the season is over.
Leasing a kayak is a great way to evaluate its comfort, size and how it performs before deciding to purchase it.
What should you look for?
Old Town creates its kayaks from single- or triple-layer polyethylene. This resilient material can withstand repeated scrapes and bumps. There may be scratches on the outside of the kayak, but these are only surface scratches and should not go through the hull.
It is possible to fix minor problems in high-density polyethylene items by joining additional material to them through welding. Old Town has repair kits made out of polyethylene so you can do touch-ups.
Damage to polyethylene kayaks is usually caused by incorrect storage practices. Plastic kayaks can bend or become distorted if the way they are stored does not evenly distribute the weight. This can take place if the items are placed in an upright position on the floor or suspended by their handles.
Leaving a kayak out in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time can cause the plastic to become even more pliable due to UV rays from the sun.
Improper transport can also damage kayaks. Particularly, the owner of the kayak is drawn to over-tighten the ratchet straps until they are heard making a clicking sound, this continues until the plastic boat is curved.
Frequently referred to as “oil-canning,” large indentations in the hull of a boat will cause a decrease in effectiveness and output. Examine the outer shell for any significant warping or damage that is probably caused by this.
Older models
Old Town has been producing kayaks for close to three decades, and a few of the vessels available on the second hand market may have been out of production. Do not be afraid of these antique kayaks just because they are no longer being produced.
Models are regularly terminated to indicate shifts in the general requirement or current happenings in the market. It does not necessarily indicate that the kayak is of poor quality.
Johnson Outdoors, the entity that owns Old Town, purchased Necky Kayaks. When the Necky brand was no longer being made, the sought-after Looksha model continued to be manufactured under the Old Town label.
You could find a secondhand Necky Looksha available, and much of its parts can be used with present Old Town kayak models.
The main downside of older boats is that they may not have as well-fitted equipment, like chairs, back supports, thigh braces, and foot rests, as the newest models. If you have some skill, it is possible to substitute old, uncomfortable or broken components with fresh replacement items from Old Town. It’s possible to modify an old kayak by attaching closed-cell foam to it, which may improve its cushioning and comfort.
You can find the necessary gear and materials needed for tasks like resealing bulkheads or replacing elastic cords at a home improvement store.
Why Would I Want An Old Town Predator Kayak?
You can choose from numerous versions of the Old Town Predator, allowing you to find the design of boat that is most suitable for you.
All Predator models are designed specifically for the purpose of fishing, featuring rod holders, mounting plates, and areas to store a crate or icy box. Boats of this type can be useful for fishermen who take part in various activities in different places, such as on the sea, in tranquil lakes or on swiftly flowing rivers.
The Predator 13 can provide an even keel for angling, but if you need extra power in swift-moving water, the MX is a better choice.
If it appeals to you to have your hands free to fish, the MK or PDL might be the ideal models for you. If you like the idea of having more room either for yourself, the belongings you’re carrying, or even your pet, you should consider the XL.
Top Features Of The Predator 13
- Length: 13 foot 2 inches
- Width: 33.5 inches
- Weight: 86 pounds
- Weight Capacity: 425 pounds
The Old Town Predator 13 is a type of kayak designed for angling that you sit on top of. This product has been constructed to provide users with both the advantages of resilience and efficiency, and it is equipped with an Element seating system.
Stand Up Fishing
The Predator 13, as well as the other members of the Predator family, boast a tri-hull construction that offers the perfect combination of stability, speed, and tracking. The shape of the hull and the construction of the leveled deck area make it possible for you to maintain an upright posture while you are in the water, which can give you an advantage when throwing a line.
The non-skid platform has a handle attached to the deck which can help when standing up or sitting down for added stability.
Fishing Gear
This yak is constructed to be used for fishing and has been equipped with all the tools that you will require. A big storage section is found near the back to house a box or an ice chest, as well as a sizable compartment at the front.
Additionally, the center console is great for storing small items that should remain in easy reach. You can also attach your fish finder to it as a favorable spot.
The yak has six attachable plates that can be taken off and relocated to different areas on the vehicle. These plates can be used to secure any accessories you want to attach without needing to make any holes in the hull.
Your rods can be stored horizontally at the bow, with built-in tip holders to shield against any damage to the rods’ tips.
Spacious Seating
The Predator 13 has an Element seat that can be quickly taken off the kayak for safekeeping. The seat can be altered to either a higher or lower position depending on if you are kayaking or angling.
You can also lower the seat to create additional space on the deck to be able to stand up.
Comfort
This yak has the advantage of adjustable foot rests which can be set to give you better stability while paddling in a place that gives you greater ease. It might be beneficial for paddlers with varying leg lengths, no matter their size.
This deck features Exo-Ridge technology. This allows any wetness to flow into the indentations, which could lead to less moisture underneath your feet.
The yak has carry handles built into the front and back, making it effortless to transport and helping to strengthen it. The craft has handles for extra comfort on both sides.
Round Up Of The Other Old Town Predator Fishing Kayaks
Predator PDL
A feature of the PDL is that its pedal drive system can be taken out, providing you with the ability to use your feet to propel you to fishing areas while freeing up your hands to focus solely on fishing.
You can propel the vehicle forwards and backwards with the pedals and can use the integrated rudder for turning and navigating. If you don’t have the knowledge or experience of kayaking, but still want to be able to take a ride on the water, then this might be a great option for you.
You may find that it is quicker to ride a bike to your favorite fishing spot rather than canoeing, particularly if you are just starting out. The PDL’s width measures 36 inches, slightly more extensive than that of the Predator 13.
Predator MX
The Predator MX has been constructed with the same tri-form hull shape, but with a more rounded silhouette to allow for optimal efficiency in turbulent waters. This product can hold up to 400 pounds and provides plenty of room for all of your fishing equipment.
This vessel has a large open deck perfect for people to move around in, with no center console taking up room, it gives extra space. You might want to consider paddling through a variety of surfaces of water.
Predator MK
This version of the MK has a width of 36 inches and can carry up to 600 lbs. It comes with a Minn Kota motor that allows you to get to your fishing spots without the need to manually paddle. It also has a rudder operated by the foot that can assist you in getting onto the right path.
This motorized yak could be the perfect option if you are looking for something to take on the water that allows you to keep your hands free to fish while staying stable. This creation is intended to join the sleekness and minuscule size of a yak with the ease and comfort of an engine-powered vessel.
Predator XL
The Predator XL is a broad and sturdy vessel that provides a roomy, non-slip surface on which to stand and be able to go fishing with improved ease. This yak is suitable for heavier paddlers due to its capacity to hold up to 600 pounds.
There’s plenty of space on deck for gear. A rudder is present which assists with steering and controlling the direction of the vessel.
Predator Angler: Questions And Answers
Does the pedal version come with rudder controls?
Yes, it comes with a rudder control knob.
Can I stand up in the Predator kayaks?
Yes, they are equipped with an assisting harness to facilitate getting up.
Do they come with a paddle?
No, paddles are sold separately.
Final Thoughts On The Predator
The Predator model boats provide a great combination of reliability and power, allowing you to stay upright while fishing. It likewise gives you the option for a “hands-free” kayaking experience.
Now that you know all the features of the Predator, you can take a look at it firsthand. Inform us if you had a good time reading this assessment and don’t forget to spread the word to the people you often go fishing with.
